Helping Rwandan Children out of Poverty

Our local co-ordinator, Jean Damascene Habanabakize, has sent us this update on the Inclusion programme at GS St Paul Muko

As you know, we recently began this initiative, and we are now completing the first phase while preparing to welcome a new group of children for training. Out of the 35 children we started with, 24 are now able to integrate into general education classes, while 9 still need additional support. We will be receiving 24 new children to replace those who have successfully transitioned.

For the safety and well-being of the children, the school decided that instead of renting a house outside, it would be best to renovate one of our rooms within the school to make it more accessible and comfortable.

The original plan was to make this room a dignified, safe, and comfortable space where children with disabilities could learn and grow without unnecessary struggles.

The renovation was meant to include tiling the floor to improve movement, installing lamps to ease accessibility, adding a gypsum ceiling to reduce the heat in Bugarama’s climate, and building an internal toilet and washroom. Many of these children struggle with mobility, and sadly, some are unable to reach the existing toilets without accidents. By renovating this room, the school hoped to give them the dignity and comfort they so deeply deserve, putting the space at the highest standard possible.

The importance of this renovation cannot be overstated. For these children, it is not just about having a classroom ,it is about creating an environment that restores their dignity, respects their needs, and gives them equal opportunity to learn and thrive alongside their peers.

Sadly, during this process, a tragic incident occurred: the truck transporting the tiles and gypsum boards for the renovation was involved in an accident. Not only were all the materials destroyed, but the driver also suffered severe injuries, losing both of his legs. To make matters worse, we later discovered that the truck was not insured. This has left us with a financial loss of 4,500,000 RWF, in addition to the emotional toll of the tragedy.

We can add two pieces of good news to JD’s report. Firstly, Hands Around The World Jersey was able to cover the loss of materials with a donation of £2,500 from our fundraising.

Secondly, a wonderful Jersey-based donor has provided us with £30,000 to cover the first three years of this programme, enabling the ongoing development of the programme until the government steps in to provide financial support.

Conflict in the DRC

Some progress has been made in resolving the conflict as peace agreements have been signed including the two governments and the rebel alliance. However, there is as yet no sign of the M23 withdrawing from the territory they took over earlier in the year.

We were frustrated at being unable to visit Bugarama as usual this year and a planned visit by 14 Jersey teachers to provide a Summer School with local teachers for the Street Children programme.

There have been no problems on the Rwandan side of the border. We are delighted that, after appropriate risk assessment, our insurance now allows us to travel to the area. Our trustees are about to travel there again. Reports on our visits next time.